Introduction

AI is changing fast, but how we get users hasn’t. Old channels are dying, and a new one is coming faster than anyone expects.

What's the problem it solves?

This article explains how companies are stuck using old ways to get users while AI tools keep evolving. It shows how new platforms like ChatGPT will soon change everything, and how companies can prepare before it's too late.

Quick Summary

Most big tech changes also bring new ways to reach people-like websites led to Google, or mobile apps led to Facebook ads. But with AI, only the tech changed. The ways we reach users (like SEO or social media) are falling apart, and no strong new channel has taken their place yet. But that shift is coming, and companies that miss it could lose fast.

Every platform-Facebook, Apple, Google, LinkedIn-follows the same playbook: start open to pull in users and developers, then slowly close and charge once they control the space. ChatGPT might be the next to do it. OpenAI is building memory and context into their tool, so users stay loyal and switching becomes hard. Early partners will win big. Late ones may lose everything.

If you're building software, you can't ignore this shift. You can’t avoid playing the platform game. The only choice is whether you play smart and early-or too late to matter.

Key Takeaways from the article

• AI changed how we build, but not how we reach users-yet
• Old channels like SEO and social feeds are breaking down
• Platforms always start open, then close and take control
• ChatGPT may be the next big platform shift
• OpenAI’s moat is memory and personal context, not just model power
• Once they lock in user data, switching becomes hard
• The window to partner is open now but will close fast
• Every major platform (Google, Facebook, Apple) followed this pattern
• Most devs and businesses aren’t ready for the shift
• You can’t opt out-either play early or risk getting left behind

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